Resolute protector
Derived from the Germanic name Willahelm, it combines the elements 'wil' (will or desire) and 'helm' (helmet or protection). It became a foundational English name following the Norman Conquest of 1066 under William the Conqueror. It has remained a consistently popular choice for royalty and commoners alike for nearly a millennium.
About 10,545 boys were named William in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Renowned English playwright and poet
Prince of Wales and heir to the British throne
Nobel Prize-winning American novelist
27th President of the United States
25th President of the United States
Genius janitor and protagonist · Good Will Hunting
Scottish knight and independence leader
Co-founder of Microsoft and philanthropist
Academy Award-winning American actor
Major English Romantic poet
The same feel as William — far less common.
Hidden gems that stand out.
